The Bishop Ajayi Crowther Memorial Anglican Church (BACMAC) Choir of Gowon Estate, Lagos, is poised to unveil a groundbreaking musical and literary work that delves into the harrowing narrative of the transatlantic slave trade through the lens of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther’s life. Titled “Samuel Ajayi Crowther: The Slave Trade Untold Story,” this 25-chapter book intertwines historical accounts with original musical compositions, offering a unique and immersive experience that explores Crowther’s journey from enslavement to becoming the first African Anglican bishop. This ambitious project, three years in the making, aims to shed light on often-overlooked aspects of the slave trade while simultaneously celebrating Crowther’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on Christianity in Africa.
The book’s narrative arc follows the trajectory of Crowther’s life, beginning with his capture and enslavement in his native Yoruba village of Osogun, his subsequent liberation by the British Navy, and his eventual conversion to Christianity. It chronicles his education in Sierra Leone, his ordination as a priest, and his pivotal role in translating the Bible into Yoruba, thereby making the Christian scriptures accessible to his people. The book also explores Crowther’s consecration as a bishop, a landmark achievement that defied the prevailing racial prejudices of the time, and his extensive missionary work across West Africa, which played a crucial role in the expansion of Christianity on the continent. Each chapter of the book features a detailed historical account followed by a specifically composed musical piece that evokes the emotions and experiences of that particular period in Crowther’s life.
The music book, composed by Chibuikem Onwumere, is more than a mere biography set to music. It is a meticulous historical exploration, drawing on extensive archival research to uncover lesser-known details about Crowther’s life, including his family life and the experiences of his wife, Susan, who was also a survivor of the slave trade. The creators emphasize that the work provides a nuanced perspective on the complexities of the slave trade and its lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities. It also highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith in the face of adversity. Crowther’s story becomes a testament to the ability to overcome unimaginable hardship and contribute significantly to shaping history.
Beyond its historical and biographical value, “Samuel Ajayi Crowther: The Slave Trade Untold Story” also underscores Crowther’s significant contributions to the development of Anglicanism in Africa. The book details how Crowther adapted Christian worship to resonate with African cultural practices, including the incorporation of drumming into church services, a practice that initially met with resistance but ultimately enriched the Anglican tradition in Africa. This innovative approach made Christianity more relatable and accessible to African communities, demonstrating Crowther’s understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in the spread of the Gospel. His work paved the way for a more inclusive and culturally relevant form of Christianity in Africa.
The BACMAC Choir views this publication as a significant achievement, marking their first venture into music book publishing. It represents a culmination of their dedication to musical excellence, historical preservation, and evangelical outreach. The book is dedicated to the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Rev. James Odedeji, and will also be presented to the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba. This reflects the importance of Crowther’s legacy within the Anglican Communion in Nigeria and beyond. The book is intended for a wide audience, including scholars, musicians, historians, and anyone interested in learning more about the transatlantic slave trade, African history, and the transformative power of faith.
The BACMAC Choir, known for its exceptional musical talent and commitment to spreading the Gospel, has a distinguished history of representing Nigeria at international choral events. Their achievements include winning silver medals at the Africa Choral Gospel Championship in Rwanda and participating in the “Africa Sings” festivals in Togo and Benin Republic. They also hosted the Church Music Convocation and Festival in Africa, drawing participation from over 14 African countries. Their repertoire ranges from traditional gospel music to classical choral masterpieces, demonstrating their versatility and musical proficiency. The choir’s upcoming participation in the World Choir Games in New Zealand and the Commonwealth Choral Festival in the UK further solidifies their position as a leading choral ensemble. The release of “Samuel Ajayi Crowther: The Slave Trade Untold Story” adds another dimension to their accomplishments, showcasing their commitment to using music as a vehicle for storytelling, historical preservation, and cultural enrichment. This project serves as a testament to their dedication to sharing the inspiring story of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther with the world.
